What Importers Should Know Before Shipping Food to the U.S.
What should manufacturers and importers know before shipping food products to the United States?
Importing food into the U.S. requires businesses to meet FDA requirements before a shipment arrives. Reviewing facility registration, labeling, suppliers, and required documentation in advance can help prevent delays or compliance issues.
Who needs to register with the FDA?
Food facilities that manufacture, process, pack, or hold food for consumption in the U.S. generally must register with the FDA, unless an exemption applies. Importers should confirm that their foreign suppliers have completed the required FDA registration and that their information is current.
What information is required on food labels?
Importers should make sure their products have labels that meet applicable U.S. requirements. Depending on the product, labels may need to include:
Product identity
Ingredient statement
Nutrition Facts panel
Required allergen declarations
Country of origin marking, when applicable
Manufacturer, packer, or distributor information
What should importers verify with foreign suppliers?
Before shipping, importers should confirm that:
The foreign facility is properly registered with FDA, when required.
The product's ingredients and formulation meet U.S. requirements.
The label complies with applicable FDA requirements.
Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) requirements are met.
Any required certificates, permits, or other documentation are available.
What is FDA Prior Notice?
Prior Notice is advance notification to the FDA about food being imported into the United States. It must generally be submitted electronically before the shipment arrives at the first U.S. port of arrival.
Importers, exporters, manufacturers, brokers, or other qualified individuals may submit Prior Notice. The deadline depends on the method of transportation. Failure to provide adequate Prior Notice can result in the shipment being refused admission or held at the port.
What should importers check before shipping?
Before the shipment leaves the supplier, importers should confirm:
FDA facility registration
Product ingredients and formulation
U.S.-compliant labeling
Allergen declarations
FSVP requirements
Required certificates or permits
Prior Notice requirements and filing deadline
Required shipping and import documents
Following these steps before shipment can help importers identify problems early and reduce the risk of delays when food products arrive in the United States.
Comments